When it comes to being the cool kid, it’s not the 2021 Kia Telluride or the redesigned Kia Sorento that win No. 1 most popular 2021 crossover SUV. In fact, it’s not the new Kia Model you’d expect. According to Cars.com, the most popular SUV of 2021 is the 2021 Kia Seltos.

This is a brand new Kia model. It’s no tough-looking Telluride or Sorento, the reimagined “storytelling machine.” In fact, it toes the line between the urban hatchback and more rugged crossover SUVs with its in-betweener size. Still, the 2021 Kia Seltos is the most popular 2021 crossover SUV. Here’s why.

How much is the 2021 Seltos?

The base price for the 2021 Seltos is $21,990 (according to Cars.com). But there’s an interesting twist to the Kia Seltos base model. The new Seltos offers not one, but two entry-level models. They each cost the same, with differing options. Due to its smaller size, the Seltos offers lower pricing than the redesigned Kia Sorento or the 2021 Kia Telluride. This is one reason it was named the most popular SUV of 2021.

The 2021 Kia Seltos LX trim is limited in terms of features, but it comes standard with all-wheel drive. The S trim of this new Kia model is packed with more and features and niceties but comes standard with front-wheel drive. There’s also an optional turbocharged engine upgrade for those that desire more pep in their step when navigating city streets or curvy country roads.

The Kia Seltos SX trim

The top SX trim starts just under $30 grand. It includes the turbo engine and standard all-wheel drive. In fact, all of the 2021 Kia Seltos models offer AWD as a standard feature––excluding only the S model. While this is a lot for a new Kia model that’s so compact in size.

But Kia manages to get so much into this small package that buyers are still finding the pricing to be well worth the spend. Overall, whether you opt for an entry-level configuration or the range-topping SX Seltos you’re probably going to be happy you did. There’s a reason this is the most popular 2021 Crossover SUV.

Owners are happy with this new Kia model

Out of 70 owner reviews on Cars.com, the 2021 Seltos is rated 4.6 out of 5 stars. People love both the exterior and interior design seen on the Seltos. The comments section shows ample praise from owners of this new Kia model.

Owners of the 2021 Kia Seltos say things like “this car is working out so nice for us” and “nice little sporty SUV.” Owners are remarkably satisfied with their 2021 Seltos models. It’s a versatile compact SUV that represents the lineup of new Kia models well.

The redesigned Kia Sorento and the 2021 Kia Telluride

The 2021 Kia Telluride and the redesigned Kia Sorento are also great choices for SUV shoppers. While they weren’t named on this list of the most popular 2021 crossover SUVs, they are still popular. If you need something larger than the 2021 Seltos, these new Kia models are great ones to check out.

If you want the most popular SUV of 2021, then spring for the 2021 Kia Seltos. But if this compact crossover SUV doesn’t quite fit the bill, we live in a world full of options. The year of the Ox just might be the year of the SUV as well.